Protective Effects of Açai in Combination with Vitamin C against Aluminum-Induced Toxicity in Rat Liver

Abstract

Aluminum is associated with the pathogenesis of several diseases. Açai has recently emerged as a natural source of antioxidants. The present study was conducted to evaluate the protective effect of Açai in combination with vitamin C against the aluminum chloride induced toxicity. Seventy rats were divided into 7 groups:- Group (GP) 1: control group, GP 2: treated with AlCl3, GP 3: treated with Açai, GP 4: treated with vitamin C, GP 5: treated with AlCl3 and Açai , GP 6: treated with AlCl3 and vitamin C, GP 7: treated with AlCl3, Açai and vitamin C. After 4 weeks, blood and liver specimens were collected to evaluate biochemical alterations and hepatic antioxidant and inflammatory parameters. AlCl3 treatment decreased liver enzymes (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase), tumor necrosis factor-α and IL-6 while hepatic malondialdehyde was elevated. In contrast, hepatic glutathione, super oxide dismutase, catalase were decreased. Açai and vitamin C treatment improved the adverse effects induced by AlCl3, while co-administration with vitamin C promoted the action of açai on hepatic damage and antioxidant parameters. Açai showed a protective effect against AlCl3 induced toxicity, particularly in combination with vitamin C.